For individuals aged 65 and older who are seropositive for Cytomegalovirus (CMV), the median life expectancy from that age is approximately 18.3 years.
Understanding CMV and Life Expectancy
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that, once acquired, stays in the body for life. While it often causes no symptoms, particularly in healthy individuals, its presence, indicated by seropositivity, can have implications for long-term health, especially in older adults. The effect of CMV seropositivity on mortality becomes more apparent after the age of 70.
Research indicates a notable difference in median life expectancy among older adults based on their CMV serostatus. The following table provides a clear comparison of median life expectancies from age 65:
| CMV Serostatus | Median Life Expectancy (from age 65) | Confidence Interval |
|---|---|---|
| CMV-Seropositive | 18.3 years | 16.1–19.4 years |
| CMV-Negative | 22.0 years | 17.4–23.7 years |
What Does CMV Seropositivity Mean?
CMV seropositivity means that an individual has antibodies to the Cytomegalovirus, indicating a past or current infection. Many people contract CMV at some point in their lives without realizing it. While the virus usually remains dormant, in some cases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or older adults, it can reactivate or contribute to chronic inflammation, potentially influencing overall health and longevity.
Factors Influencing CMV Impact
The precise mechanisms by which CMV seropositivity might influence life expectancy are complex and are an area of ongoing research. However, it is believed that chronic low-grade inflammation, immunosenescence (the age-related decline of the immune system), and the cumulative burden of viral persistence could play roles.
It is important to remember that the figures provided are median life expectancies for a specific age group and represent statistical averages. Individual life expectancy can be influenced by a wide array of factors, including overall health, lifestyle choices, genetic predispositions, and other existing medical conditions.
